NRL master coach Wayne Bennett has announced he’s separated from his wife.

The seven-time premiership winning mentor confirmed the move in a statement released on Saturday.

The 67-year-old Bennett had three children with his wife Trish.

“As an NRL head coach and thereby a public figure I today inform you about a personal matter and the fact I have separated from my wife and the family home some time ago,” the statement said.

“I will continue to appear publicly in my role at the Brisbane Broncos but at the same time ask that you respect my personal privacy and that of my family.”

Bennett’s Brisbane bowed out of the NRL title race on Friday night.

The Broncos were ousted 26-20 in extra-time by defending champion North Queensland in Townsville in their sudden death NRL semi-final clash.